The United States and Japan will step up their defence cooperation to deal with the threat from nuclear-armed North Korea as tensions in East Asia remain high, officials from the two allies said on Thursday.

Vic police out in force for NYE

Police will target misbehaving revellers among the hundreds of thousands of people expected to watch fireworks in the Melbourne CBD and celebrate New Year's Eve in coastal areas.

Deputy Commissioner Andrew Crisp says police will be in places where there are large gatherings to ensure people have a great night and to deter alcohol-fuelled violence.

"By all means, enjoy yourself, but do it responsibly. The community won't tolerate anti-social behaviour and nor will we," he said.

Alcohol cannot be drunk in public places in some parts of the state, such as the Mornington Peninsula, and police are reminding people not to drink and drive.

Mr Crisp said police will also target people deliberately and recklessly engaging in fire activities.

"The fact is that a fire - whether lit deliberately or through careless acts - has the potential to destroy communities, infrastructure, livestock and human life. We've had a sad example of that as recently as Christmas Day."

There will be fireworks displays around the state but anyone caught using fireworks without a licence can face criminal charges.